How Successfully has the European Union Demonstrated Itself to be an Exporter of Liberal Norms and Values?

The concept of Europe's Normative Power aimed to reconfigure the global order in alignment with the EU's principles of peace and stability. This principle necessitates the EU's steadfast commitment to its values and objectives, despite the intricate and ever-changing landscape of global politics. However, the practical application of EU Normative Power has often fallen short, particularly evident in its response to events like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This essay proposes to analyze the EU's transmission of normative power through both political and economic lenses, employing empirical methodologies and considering theoretical frameworks such as Realism and Marxism. Additionally, the EU's attempt to solidify its image through initiatives like the European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) has resulted in ambiguity and a shift towards a more securitized identity. Moreover, the EU's response to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including its financing of non-normative military equipment, further undermines its claim to normative power.